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The Forced Marriage unit has released new figures showing young people aged between 16 and 25 are most at risk of being forced into marriage.

Home Office Minister for Crime Prevention, Jeremy Browne, said:

Forced marriage is a devastating form of abuse that is absolutely unacceptable in our society. The new figures show an alarming number of victims, including the young and vulnerable. It is vital we protect them. By criminalising forced marriage the government is sending a strong message that this terrible practice will not be tolerated. But legislation alone is not enough and the new app will also provide a crucial lifeline for potential victims.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office Minister for Consular Policy has called forced marriage an "appalling and indefensible practice".

New figures released today show that young people are more at risk of being forced into marriage.

Forcing someone to marry is an appalling and indefensible practice which is why the Government is committed to eliminating it, with young people particularly vulnerable. We will use every means at our disposal, whether its engaging with schools and communities or through using mobiles and social media to reach potential victims. We want those who are worried about forced marriage to know that there is help out there.